June 2013 by Urban Paws Magazine

See how Bark Busters changed the life of an Airforce dog handler or, view the “Aspen’s Story” video on YouTube.com

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YOUR AD HERE Be a part of Urban Paws’ Pack.

Affordable. Effective. Easy. To find out more, call 281.384.5431

Publisher Jennifer Kitchens-Street (281) 384.5431

jennifer@urbanpawsmagazine.com

Advertising (281) 384.5431

sales@urbanpawsmagazine.com

Contributing Writers Jan Davidson Bob Williams Katie Rediski Michelle Spencer

Staff Photographer Jamie Fincher www.pawprintsbyjamie.com

Urban Paws Magazine PO Box 1556 Spring, TX 77383

www.urbanpawsmagazine.com Web: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

ÂŠ Copyright 2013. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s written permission. Urban Paws magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, feature and idea submissions, or photographs, and such material will not be returned. Urban Paws magazine assumes no liability for the contents herein and has the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Urban Paws magazine does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible.

Please tell our advertisers that you heard about them in Urban Paws Magazine!

contents Issue 5: Volume 7

EVENT CALENDAR 6 June 2013

THE SCOOP 7

Canine News and Happenings

TRAINING & BEHAVIOR 14 The Sport of Lure Coursing

TRAINING & BEHAVIOR 16

Top 10 Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know

HEALTH & WELLNESS 18

Part II: What You Need to Know About Cancer Treatments

BODY & SOUL 20

Peace, Zen and Harmony with Dogs

ADOPTION 24

Humane Animal Rescue Program (HARP)

VETERINARY DIRECTORY 26

Cover photo and this photo by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.

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COMING IN AUGUST:

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event calendar For a full listing of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events JUNE 1

Cold Ones for Kitties fundraiser. Southern Star Brewery, 1207 N. FM 3083 E. in Conroe from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. Beer, Music, Food and Fun benefiting the Montgomery County Animal Society and the Bruce Kapp Memorial Animal Fund to raise funds to continue our feral/free roaming cat sterilization program. Admission is $20 in advance or at the door entitles attendee to 5 craft beers. Purchase tickets in advance at www.southernstarbrewing.com.

JUNE 1

PugHearts Garage Sale at the Woodedge Subdivisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s club house, 10403 Greencreek. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. PugHearts goal is to raise $2,000 for the dogs in their care. Visit www.pughearts.com to donate items.

JUNE 2

Strykers Bark in the Park presented by Barker Street Gourmet Dog Bakery. Nothing says summer like baseball. Grab your leash and head to the ballpark for The Woodlands Strykers Dog Day. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Game starts at 7:05 p.m. For more information, visit www.barkerstreetbakery.com.

JUNE 12

Visit Mission Burrito on June 12th, from 4:00 pm10:00 p.m. and let the staff know you are dining for Special Pals. A percentage of each meal will benefit the shelter. Mission Burrito LaCenterra, 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd in Katy. For more information, visit www.specialpalshouston.org.

JUNE 21

Take Your Dog to Work Day. On this day, thousands of pet owners will work with their dogs to celebrate the 15th annual TYDTWDay. In addition, the entire week, June 17-21, has been designated Take Your Pet To Work Weekâ&#x201E;˘. So, if your company is closed on Fridays or if you want to invite all types of pets, select any day during the week to host a special event at your workplace. To learn more, visit www.takeyourdog.com.

JUNE 1-30 Adopt a Shelter Cat Month. Visit your local animal shelter to find the perfect furry feline for your family.

JUNE 10-14

Houston SPCA Critter Camp. Kids can spend a week with their favorite critters and learn about the animals cared for by the Houston SPCA. For additional dates and to register, visit www.hspca.org.

June 2013

the scoop

Rover Oaks Pet Resort to Host Operation: War Dogs, a Month-Long Donation Drive to Support U.S. Military K-9 Fund

Rover Oaks Pet Resort is preparing to launch its third annual month-long donation drive, Operation: War Dogs, to support US Military K-9 Fund and United States War Dogs Association (USWDA). The drive officially begins on Memorial Day and ends on Independence Day, July 4, 2013. Last year, Rover Oaks raised over $10,000 for US Military K-9 Fund through Operation: War Dogs. During Operation: War Dogs, donors can stop by Rover Oaks Pet Resort in Houston near Reliant Stadium or Rover Oaks Katy near Katy Mills Mall to make a contribution or simply mail a check to Rover Oaks made out to US Military K-9 Fund. Rover Oaks will be giving away a free night of lodging at their facilities to every donor who contributes $100. Donations of $25 will receive a commemorative army dog tag necklace. In addition, Rover Oaks will decorate their facilities with patriotic paw prints presenting the names of the clients and community members who contribute to US Military K9 Fund. Every dollar counts and anyone interested in donating is encouraged to stop by either Rover Oaks loca-

tion to make a contribution in their name or in honor of a soldier they wish to recognize. These donations will help provide an abundance of critically needed items including K9 medications, food, grooming tools, bedding and other necessities. Donations will be accepted at either Rover Oaks location. Rover Oaks Houston, 713-6622119, is located at 2550 West Bellfort, Houston 77054. Rover Oaks Katy, 281-693-7687, is located at 24250 Kingsland Blvd., Katy 77494. To learn more about Rover Oaks or for directions, visit www.roveroaks.com. For more information on US Military K-9 Fund, visit: www.usmilitaryk-9fund.org.

Special Pals’ Board of Directors Announce Change in Leadership

The Board of Directors of Special Pals, a limited-intake, no-kill animal shelter located in west Houston, announce that Yvonne David has left her post as executive director of the organization. “We are grateful for Yvonne David’s years of service and commitment to the mission of Special Pals, and we wish her luck on future endeavors,” said Joycelyn Urech, Chairman of the Special Pals Board of Directors. The Board has appointed shelter staff veteran Elizabeth Trick as the interim executive director, and has established a transition team to ensure seamless operations during this time. Trick will support the board’s oversight and the shelters’ ongoing work during the interim period, during Urban Paws Magazine 7

the scoop

which time the team will assess Special Pals’ executive leadership needs. "I am pleased to accept the position as interim executive director and I look forward to providing leadership and continuing our mission as a no-kill organization,” says Trick. “I am dedicated to making the necessary changes to improve our performance, broaden our scope and enhance our impact in the community." During the transition period, Special Pals will continue to host low-cost wellness clinics on scheduled Saturdays and perform spay and neuter surgeries, while also continuing its primary mission: finding permanent, qualified homes for the over 65 cats and dogs currently residing at the shelter.

Local Brewery to Host ‘Cold Ones for Kitties’ to Fund Stray Cat Spay/Neuter Efforts

Southern Star Brewing Company in Conroe, TX will host a fundraising event on June 1 from 6pm – 10pm to benefit local efforts to spay and neuter Montgomery County’s stray and freeroaming cats. The Bruce Kapp Memorial Animal Fund (BKMAF) and Montgomery County Animal Society (MCASociety) have partnered to promote ‘Cold Ones for Kitties’ to prevent the birth of unwanted litters of kittens. The event will feature beer, food and a performance by country music recording artist Grady Skelton. Stray and free-roaming cat sterilization, referred to as Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR), is touted by national stray-cat expert group Alley Cat Allies as the only proven method to slow the 8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

overpopulation of stray cats and reduce the number of unwanted kittens entering our nation’s shelters. Montgomery County Animal Shelter (MCAS) may take in as many as 60 kittens in one day during ‘kitten season’ – the spring and summer months when kitten births are at their height. “During ‘kitten season’ we cannot even hope to save them all. Not enough adopters, not enough foster homes. Many kittens die needlessly when those deaths could have been prevented just by spaying and neutering,” laments Jane Holman, MCAS Kennel Manager and BKMAF Director. “It’s truly a shame. And it’s time our community banded together to make a serious impact.” Holman has recruited a network of volunteers to locate, trap and transport cats for surgery and partnered with veterinarian Dr. Todd Hayden who can perform around 30 surgeries in one day. BKMAF and MCASociety together have funded the spay/neuter of nearly 250 cats. It costs these non-profit organizations $40 to alter and vaccinate each cat but the groups say it is worth it. Rosanna Russell, MCASociety board member states, “We’re hoping this will make a lasting difference and that soon in the future we will see fewer and fewer litters of kittens ending up at the shelters.” Russell goes on to say, “Other communities have implemented successful TNR programs. I know we can too.” Admission is $20 per person and includes fullsize samplings of five Southern Stars premium craft brews. Those in attendance are encouraged to bring folding or lawn chairs as seating is limited. Purchase tickets at the door or in advance

the scoop

online at southernstarbrewing.com. For more event information email mcasvolunteer@gmail.com.

The Village at Gleannloch Farms Pet Adoption and Fundraiser Event

The Village at Gleannloch Farms teamed up with Abandoned Animal Rescue (AAR) of Tomball to host their second annual Pet Adoption & Fundraiser on May 4th. The no-kill shelter run entirely by volunteers is full to capacity and is raising money to expand its space. The fundraiser brought in over $300 in monetary donations and received over $500 in requested donated items. “This is our second year to team up with AAR and we really enjoy being able to help them raise money to save these animals,” said Kathy Johanns, executive director at The Village at Gleannloch Farms. “AAR runs completely on donations and the work of about 25 volunteers, and our residents enjoy being able to help raise money to see these animals be saved and adopted.” “We are so grateful for everyone who came out to The Village at Gleannloch Farms to donate money and items and adopt animals,” said Debbie Allison, volunteer coordinator and executive director of AAR. “We want to do the best thing for these animals and are in the middle of a building campaign trying to build a new facility in the back for more space. We are still in need of monetary donations, sponsors, and animals to be adopted to progress even further.” For more information on AAR, please visit www.aartomball.org.

The Shotwell family participated in the fundraiser at The Village at Gleannloch Farms on Saturday and adopted their latest family member Shyla.

A pet fair attendee visits with dog Odie at the recent Pet Adoption and Fundraiser at The Village at Gleannloch Farms.

The Village at Gleannloch Farms resident Evelyn Jones enjoys a hamburger with staff member Gina at the Pet Adoption & Fundraiser. Urban Paws Magazine 9

SOLID GOLD FREEZE DRIED RAW BEEF

Many pet owners like to feed raw meat, but the constant recall of raw meat with salmonella poisoning or ecoli has put a stop to many sales. Solid Gold Freeze Dried Raw Meat has solved this problem. We dropped the temperature of the beef to -120Ë&#x161; below zero. This kills all diseases. Then, we put in a nitrogen flush which takes out all the moisture. The five pack is almost equivalent to 7 pounds of raw meat with the water removed. The single patty pack is equivalent to a pound and a half of raw meat. Spread out pieces or concentrate as needed. Break apart with fingers and mix with kibble or use as a treat or bait. Not greasy. No need to carry a freezer box.

The Cute Story It had been a long day at the dog show. The owner of two Rhodesian Ridgebacks was exhausted. She was going to rush into a fast food place, grab a sandwich, and the go back to the hotel. She had bought two 5-count Buckaroo Beef packages to mix in with the dry Solid Gold dog food that night. It was easier than trying to open a can of meat. Her two Ridgebacks were sleeping quietly in the van. Should she leave the new packages of Buckaroo Beef in the front seat or not? The two five packs were equivalent to almost 14 lbs. so they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possibly be that hungry. She had planned to break up the patties for supper, for a bedtime snack and breakfast with kibble. Sounded like a good plan. Rhodesians are very smart. When she returned to her van, all ten patties were gone, they had very carefully opened the packages and enjoyed every bite. Now for a little water, please. So much for the best laid plans---

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The 5 count package is $19.74 plus shipping Single count package is $4.27 plus shipping We accept all major credit cards as well as checks. To order, call (619) 258-7356, Monday thru Friday 10 am to 5pm pacific time, or go online to www.solidgoldholistic.com.

Ask your local pet store for a free catalogue. If they don’t have a SunDancer catalogue, call us at (619) 258-7356, M-F, 10am to 5pm Pacific time. Or e-mail us at info@solidgoldholistic.com. You can also visit our website at www.solidgoldholistic.com.

Solid Gold Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca, El Cajon, CA 92020

mutt mugs

“When most of us talk to our dogs, we tend to forget they’re not people.” Julia Glass

12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

training & behavior

The Sport of

Lure Coursing

14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

Icelandic Sheepdog: Gaia's Bjort CGC "Ruthless"

By: Katie Rediske

Doberman Pinscher: UKC Ch Mystery of Spanish Chest CGC "Dreizehn"

ure coursing, originally a sport that was

when chasing the lure and it can be very hard on

sport for all dogs now that the AKC has intro-

you are not sure that your dog is healthy enough

exclusive to sighthounds, is a growing

duced the Coursing Ability Test (CAT). The sport of Lure Coursing is based on live game

coursing but now, instead of live game, plastic

bags are used as "prey." The CAT involves dogs chasing the prey, or lure, around a predesigned course. The length of the course that each dog

runs depends on their size and breed with small dogs and flat-faced breeds running shorter distances than taller dogs. Many dogs take right to

the sport, as it plays on a dog's natural prey

drive. Still, even dogs who don't chase the lure the first time can learn to love it after a couple of tries. This is a sport that is fun for dogs and

a dog that is not used to that type of activity. If

for the sport, make an appointment with their veterinarian to get their opinion. Also, work on

a reliable recall command with your dog. For this sport, dogs run in a large, open field and

you will want to make sure that your dog will

come back to you after they've finished running the course. For owners, make sure that you wear comfortable shoes and, if you cannot easily hold

on to your dog when he is excited, consider bringing a friend to help! Finally, bring water for

you and your dog and consider bringing his crate as well.

For more information on Lure Coursing, eli-

their humans!

gibility for participation, and events near you

will need to make sure that your dog is in good

http://www.akc.org

Before taking your dog to a CAT event you

physical shape. Many dogs run at full speed

visit the American Kennel Club website at

Urban Paws Magazine 15

training & behavior Top 10 Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know

1) A dog is a dog. The greatest misconception many dog owners have is to assume their dogs communicate the way people do. Dogs instinctively follow the same rules and exhibit many of the same behavioral patters as their wild ancestors. To effectively train your dog, you must first understand his instinctual pack behavior. 2) All dogs think in terms of survival.

Dogs instinctively know that living with others, under the leadership of an assertive pack member, increases their chances for survival. As a dog owner, one of your responsibilities is to model a leaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong and consistent characteristics so that you will be accepted as the leader and your dog will learn to respect and obey you. Your leadership will help your dog feel safe and eliminate many behavioral problems.

3) Dogs donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand English. In 16 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

addition to barking, growling and other gutteral sounds, dogs rely heavily on body language. And yet, your body language can easily be misinterpreted. By understanding how dogs communicate, you will avoid the mistake of telling your dog one thing while your body language and voice tone tell him something completely different.

4) Dogs are neither spiteful nor deliberately naughty. There are three reasons why a

dog misbehaves or disobeys: 1. He does not understand what you want. 2. He does not consider you his leader, or 3. He is suffering from some kind of stress or fear. Understanding this will help you address your dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problems and behaviors.

5) Aggression is instinctual in every breed. Whether Chihuahua or German

By: Bob Williams, Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Shepherd, a dog’s breed has nothing to do with aggression. Instead, aggression is instinctual and caused most often by fear of the unknown–that is, whatever the dog cannot understand or does not recognize as normal. When a dog becomes frightened, he will do one of two things: fight or take flight. By reinforcing leadership with your dog, you can avoid unacceptable or uncontrollable aggression.

6) You can teach an old dog new tricks.

Dogs are continuous learners and have good memories. The three things that primarily influence a dog’s behavior are association, experience and instinct. By conditioning your dog and effectively showing him what you consider good and bad behavior, you can help him change his behavior.

7) Bad behaviors may be natural, but they do not have to be normal. Most peo-

ple consider digging, chewing and jumping as unacceptable dog behavior–but to dogs, these actions are natural. As our dog’s primary educator and leader, it is our job to teach him that what he considers natural behaviors are not necessarily acceptable in our households.

8) It’s illogical to get angry with your dog. Dogs do only what comes naturally or

what they’ve learned through association, so getting angry–or using physical force–is both inappropriate and counterproductive. Moreover, never use your hands for disciplining, because dogs find this provocative and threatening. Use your hands as little as possible when train-

ing–and when you do, make sure your dog always associates your hands with gentleness and pleasure.

9) Correct your dog on the spot. Because dogs learn from association, they will comprehend your message only if it is delivered in a timely manner. A correction must be issued at the precise moment the dog is either contemplating or actually doing something wrong. Because it can be difficult to catch your dog in the act, find ways to simulate situations in which your dog would normally misbehave so that you can then correct him immediately and guide him to the appropriate behavior, while praising his correct decisions. 10) Dogs experience the world differently than humans. With 25 times more olfacto-

ry receptors than humans, dogs can sense oders at concentrations millions of times lower than we can. In addition, a dog’s eyesight has been described to be like that of a person who is color-blind. Dogs use other cues (such as smell, texture, brightness and position) rather than relying on color. With acutely developed hearing, dogs can hear sounds four times farther away than humans–but dogs also hear selectively. They can sleep beside a blaring television, but wake up as soon as they hear something unrelated to that. Bob Williams is a Master Dog Trainer and Behavioral Therapist for Bark Busters Home Dog Training. To schedule an appointment, call 713.771.2275. Urban Paws Magazine 17

health & wellness Part II - What You Need to Know About Cancer Treatments

elcome to our series on companion

ing a good quality of life. Cancer treatment is

cle, we discussed events that typi-

step in the road.

animal cancer. In the previous arti-

cally occur after your pet has been diagnosed

fluid and there is room for assessment at each

with cancer. In this article, we answer some

Some cancers normally respond very well to

present tips on how to find the best oncology

nary oncologist will be your most reliable

questions about chemotherapy treatments and team for your pet.

Choosing a treatment

chemotherapy, while others do not. Your veterisource of information on this subject and will guide you through the decision making process.

Veterinary oncology is still a growing field. In

Chemotherapy typically comes in the form of

financial concerns, your choices may be limited.

muscular and subcutaneous injections must be

some cases, usually due to geographical or If you do have the opportunity to choose from

more than one treatment facility, ask yourself a few questions:

• Is your doctor a board certified Veterinary Oncologist?

• How far away is their office? How well does your pet handle the trip? Will you be able to

travel there weekly, monthly, etc? Do they have hours that will accommodate your schedule?

• Do they offer financial plans, counseling, assistance?

• Will your pet remain with you during treat-

ments? Will you drop your pet off for the day for treatment?

pills or liquid injectables. Intravenous, intragiven at your veterinary office by qualified doc-

tors and technicians. Some injections take just minutes, while others are delivered over a peri-

od of hours. At some clinics, you may be allowed to stay with your pet if they are receiv-

ing a short injection. Intravenous chemotherapy can be dangerous if it leaks outside of a

vein, so it is best for your pet to remain calm

and still during treatment. If your presence

seems to excite your pet, the staff may ask you to wait outside for a bit while the treatment is

in progress. In rare instances, some pets may require medication to help them relax during the injection.

If your pet is receiving a treatment that is given

Chemotherapy

over a number of hours, you will be asked to

ber, the goal of cancer treatment in pets is to

Normally, in such cases, there are rules and reg-

The word itself makes you cringe. But, rememcontrol or eradicate cancer cells while preserv18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

leave them at the facility during that time.

ulations in place to keep both you and your pet

By: Michelle Spencer, Veterinary Technician, Oncology Specialist

safe during lengthy chemotherapy infusions.

tions needed when cleaning up after a pet who

attend to urine, feces and vomit should they

is a very important step. These issues will be

For instance, only a qualified staff member can occur during an infusion.

has recently received a chemotherapy treatment, addressed further in an upcoming article.

Chemotherapy treatments tend to follow a

In our next article, we will discuss common side

presented with a schedule prior to treatment.

ications used to treat them.

proven protocol or schedule. You should be The schedule should also include information

about when certain blood tests must be run.

While these blood tests normally do not indicate the cancers response, they will provide critical information about how your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organs are handling treatment and alert you to infections.

Some pets may also qualify for a clinical trial.

Normally, your veterinarian will present this option to you if they

think it may be appropriate

for

your

pet.

Occasionally, some companies will provide you with free or discounted

medications for participating in their trial.

Speaking with your veterinarian about the common and not so common side effects of chemotherapy

and the proper precau-

effects of chemotherapy agents, and the med-

â&#x20AC;&#x153;New England Pet Hospice & Home Care supports those caring for ill, elderly and special needs animals at home following the human hospice and palliative care models of interdisciplinary care. Learn more and get your FREE subscription to Wag & Purr: Your Guide to Comfort Care for Pets at www.NewEnglandPetHospice.com"

body & soul

Peace, Zen and Harmony with Dogs am all about holistic living. Peace, Zen, and Harmony…with three dogs in the household. Hmmmm…so how do I keep it all together? Sometimes I don’t. Have you ever had one of those days (but you don’t realize how it has affected your attitude)? My three let me know. Like when you are sick and your best b u d d y snuggles up with you, my three try hard to bring me out of the funk. Most times they manage it. Have you ever noticed your little four-legged friend acting out-of-sorts? What is your first thought? More training? Discipline? Those might help; however, you might want to check your attitude first, then check your little (or big) buddy’s health, and medications. Two of my four-legged buddies take medication to help control immunity. Both medications can cause behavior and personality changes. They also reflect back attitude shifts that I have. Holistic methods help in both areas. Bach Flower Essences in their water helps even out temperament. Because it is safe, even the dog not on medication can enjoy its benefits (so can you!). Rescue Remedy (also a Bach formulation) also helps with anxiety – theirs and

20 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

By: Jan Davidson, Elegant Hippy

yours! Diffusing essential oil blends also helps with everyone’s body-mind balance. Lavender is always a good choice, but there is also Clary Sage, Cedarwood (great for pest control, too!) a n d Bergamot. These are just a few that can be blended with other essential oils to create wonderful aromatic blends. C u s t o m blends can always be developed to support emotional well-being; however, make sure that you are using essential oils and not fragrance oils. Essential oils have therapeutic constituents,; while fragrance oils do not. Lastly, Reiki energy healing is another approach. However, I am always careful not to try to Reiki the dogs if I am not centered–the healing energy doesn’t flow well when the practitioner is not centered. There you have it, a three-pronged holistic approach to achieving Peace, Zen, and Harmony: Flower Essences, Aromatherapy, and Reiki. Jan Davidson is a certified natural products manufacturer, aromatherapist, holistic health consultant, and Reiki master. She is part owner of Elegant Hippy. www.eleganthippy.com.

Co-Pilot Protection Plan Protect your Pet’s Health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance UÊ ä¯Ê vÊÞ ÕÀÊÛiÌÊL Ê«> `Êv ÀÊ UÊ/ «Ê,>Ìi`Ê Ê ÕÃÌ iÀÊ->Ì Ãv>VÌ Ê UÊ£ä¯Ê viÌ iÊ ÃV Õ Ì Your enrollment helps homeless pets! 7 Ì ÊÞ ÕÀÊi À i Ì]ÊÜiÊ` >ÌiÊÊÊ iÃÃi Ì > Ê i` V> ÊV>ÀiÊÌ Ê i «Ê}iÌÊ>ÊÊÊ i iÃÃÊ«iÌÊÀi>`ÞÊv ÀÊ>` «Ì ° 6 Ã Ì GoHealthyPaws.com/UrbanPaws Ì Ê}iÌÊÞ ÕÀÊ ÀiiÊ+Õ Ìi°Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê

While human safety is paramount, we have

When severe weather threatens, bring your

learned valuable lessons from previous hurri-

pets inside well before the storm begins. Remain

disaster planning for animals.

ed. Call ahead to confirm your selected pet shel-

canes about the importance of incorporating When a hurricane threatens you and your fam-

ily, be sure to also make plans to keep your pets

calm, and calm your pets if they become agitatter is still able to care for your pet.

Once the storm has passed and you return

safe.

home, it is important to remember that your

due to a hurricane, it is wise to make sure that

the storm. Familiar scents and landmarks may

Before there is a need to evacuate your home

your pets are all current on their vaccinations. Pets that will be boarded will need proof of current vaccinations at many boarding facilities.

pet's surroundings may have been changed by

no longer be there. Your pet can easily become confused or lost.

You should walk all pets on a leash until they

Determine where your pet will stay during the

are able to reorient themselves. This will also

Check with family and friends who are not in

downed power lines, debris and reptiles that

storm, if you have to evacuate.

the path of the storm to see if they can watch

your pets. If there is no one who can help, check with specialized pet shelters, veterinary clinics or animal control shelters. Once you find

someone who can care for your pets, work the

help keep them safe from hazards such as may have been brought in by high water.

Plan for your pet's safe evacuation before an

emergency arises to ensure a smooth and easy evacuation process.

location where you will drop them off into your evacuation route.

If your pet becomes lost during the storm, call your local animal control office for information on where lost pets can be claimed. Bring your pet's photo with you for easier identification. 22 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

WHAT TO DO:

WHAT TO BRING:

• Don’t leave your pet at home! While most

• Enough pet food for one week

evacuations last only a few days, there are times that you may not be able to return quickly. The safest place for your pet is with you.

• If you are going to a hotel, call ahead and make sure, in advance, that animals are wel-

come. Many hotels relax their policies during

times of crisis, but don’t assume that this will be the case. For on-line information about petfriendly

hotels,

check

out

www.bringyourpet.com, www.petswelcome.com or www.pets-allowed-hotels.com.

• If you are staying with friends or family, make

sure that your pets are invited as well. If not, ask for recommendations of nearby veterinary hospitals or boarding kennels and make reservations in advance.

• Be sure that your pets are up-to-date on all

vaccinations and bring proof of vaccinations

• Food bowl

• Water bowl

• Bottled water • Leash

• Harness or collar

• Proof of vaccinations • Rabies tag

• Portable kennel

• Litter box and litter for cats

• Trash bags for stool disposal

• Newspaper or towels for crate lining • Heartworm preventative • Flea and tick protection • All medications

• For exotic pets, bring their entire habitat,

including heat lamps and extension cords

with you. It is a good idea to ask your veterinar-

Your pet’s kennel should be large enough for

record. Keep this with your emergency kit.

crates are best if your pets might be in a non-air

ian now for a copy of your pet’s vaccination • If your pet is on medication, bring at least a two week supply.

• Identification of your pet is crucial! The ideal

form of identification is a microchip or a tattoo.

At minimum, your pet should have a tag with his

him to stand and turn around. Collapsible wire conditioned environment for an extended peri-

od. A battery-operated fan that can attach to the

cage can be a much appreciated addition. Molded plastic airline-approved crates make for easier transport and are best for animals that don’t travel well in the car.

name, your name, and your phone number on it. Pictures of your pet that capture identifying features are also a good idea.

Urban Paws Magazine 23

adoption Humane Animal Rescue Program (HARP) www.harp-rescue.com

H.A.R.P. or Humane Animal Rescue Program is an animal rescue group that was created in early 2008 by a group of young adults who saw the need for change in a world so cruel to animals. HARP strives to help every animal it comes in contact with whether the problem is big or small. We are fighting to put an end to animal abuse and over population and to reduce the statistics of animal euthanasia. HARP's goal is to make the un-adoptable adoptable We are a 501(c)(3) organization and are completely volunteer based. For more information on adopting, donating or volunteering, contact harprescue@yahoo.com

Our cover dog, Lola!

Photo by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.

Meet Lola! Lola is a spayed female pit mix. She is

gets along very well with every dog she meets,

Mattie, were found locked in a warehouse in the

tend to get annoyed, so she would do best with

about 4 years old. Lola and her best friend,

middle of June. They were confined to a small area surrounded by pallets with no food or water. Temperatures were far above 100 degrees that

day, and there is no telling how long they had been in there. We took them straight home.

Mattie, was quickly adopted to her forever home,

but Lola has been looking ever since. She is

extremely friendly to all people and animals. She 24 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

but gets a little too excited with cats. The cats

no feline friends. Lola has a lot of energy and

would benefit from a family that does as well. She is very loyal, loves to please, and loves to give kisses. Lola will make a perfect addition to a very lov-

ing family. She is spayed, microchipped, and fully vaccinated. If you are interested in loving Lola, please email us at harprescue@yahoo.com.

Amber

Meet Zach! Zach is a neutered male shepherd mix. He is about 3 years old. Zach was saved from the City of Houston's animal control facility, BARC. He wasn't considered adoptable, because he was heartworm positive and very timid. Zach was saved just in time, because shortly after bringing him home he became very sick. Zach became very lethargic, lost a lot of weight, and contracted pneumonia. After a lot of medical attention and tons of TLC we determined Zach had barely survived Canine Influenza. One day his fever broke and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been doing better ever since. He is very healthy and happy to be alive, and he appreciates all the attention he now gets. He is neutered, micro-chipped, and vaccinated and is being treated for his heartworms. Zach is very loving and very protective of his family.

Join us in helping our fourlegged friends find loving

homes. Adopt a dog today!

Meet Amber! Amber is a female Australian Shepherd mix. She is about 5 years old. Amber was found by her foster mom tied to a sign at an elementary school. She was very hungry and thirsty so we took her straight home. Amber had a lot of adjusting to do. She had to learn how to behave as an inside dog. It was clear she had spent her whole life outside. That was two years ago, and Amber is a totally different dog. She is very friendly, and just generally loves life. She loves to play with toys and bones and really enjoys being loved on. As much as she enjoys playing, she also looks forward to a good nap. Amber is spayed, micro-chipped, and vaccinated. If you are interested in Amber, please email us at harprescue@yahoo.com.

Zachary

Urban Paws Magazine 25

vet directory

VETERINARY DIRECTORY | 2013 Laurie Noaker, DVM, DACVIM Veterinary Emergency Referral Group, Inc. (VERGI) 8921 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77024 (p): 713.932.9589 (w): www.vergi247.com

Christie Cornelius, DVM Last Wishes In-Home Pet Hospice and Euthanasia

1302 Waugh Drive, Suite 968 Houston, Texas 77019 (p:) 713.452.0474 (w): www.petslastwishes.com

Rick Wall, DVM, CCRP Center for Veterinary Pain Management and Rehabilitation

10807 Kuykendahl Road, Suite 406 The Woodlands, Texas 77382 (p): 281.298.5509 (e): vetrehab@wallvet.com

Nicholas J. Millichamp,

BVetMed, PhD, DVOphthal, DipECVO, MRCVS Eye Care for Animals 17395 Tomball Parkway #3-H Houston, Texas 77064 (p): 281.890.3937 (w): www.eyecareforanimals.com

Angel Ibanez, DVM Angelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pet Hospital

24734 Kuykendahl Road Tomball, Texas 77375 (p:) 281.290.0360 (w): www.angelspethospital.com

Clara Scott, DVM My Family Vet

20120 Kuykendahl Road Spring, Texas 77379 (p): 281.288.0500 (w): www.myfamilyvet.com

The Woodlands

Spring

Tomball

Northwest Houston

Mobile

Greater Houston

26 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com